…The short answer is yes, you can (with a few caveats).
The COVID-19 Stay At Home Order does not specifically prohibit real estate closings and settlement services. However, you will need to take additional precautions.
Banks and other financial service providers are considered “essential services” and are permitted to remain open for business. So, while there may be additional logistical requirements, we are still able to conduct real estate closings (as of today).
If you have already found a home to purchase, that makes things fairly easy. Nearly the entire closing process, other than signing the documents, can be performed virtually.
Now, if you are still searching for a home, you can leverage technology to view listings online, conduct virtual showings, and electronically sign contract documents. You technically would not even need to leave the comfort and safety of your living room.
The Sibley Group is creating 3D Virtual Tours for each of our listings so that buyers can virtually walk through the properties from the safety of their computer or mobile device. If buyers own a pair of VR goggles, they can even use virtual reality to feel as if they are really at the property.
Ready To Schedule A Virtual Appointment?
If purchasing a property completely virtually makes you uncomfortable, there are still options. We are recommending that clients view homes virtually until they find the one they would like to purchase. The Sibley Group is leveraging 360 video, and stremining services such as Facetime and Google Meet to hold virtual showings. The COVID-19 order and guidance from the Louisiana Realtors, require that gatherings be limited to 10 people and social distancing requirements be maintained at all times.
Once you identify the home that you intend to purchase, a private showing or inspection can be requested with only the Buyer(s) and their Realtor present.
At the showing, it is required that everyone use hand sanitizer, maintain a minimum of 6′ distance, and refrain from un-necessarily touching anything while inside the house. After the showing, anything that may have been touched, such as light switches and door knobs, should be disinfected with sanitizing wipes. If a buyer is showing any symptoms of COVID-19 or has been recommended to self quarantine, they should refrain from any in person showings for at least 14 days.
If you have further questions about buying and selling during this unique time, give us a call or send us a message below.
